Three local schools receive funding to create habitat.

Local non-profit organization Friends of the Rouge is implementing a Schoolyard Habitat program for the 2009-2010 school year. The program is focused on getting kids outside to learn by providing grants to create outdoor classrooms at local schools. Schoolyard habitats vary widely but usually incorporate four basic elements: food, water, shelter and space – all things required for plants and animals to survive. Habitats are used as multidisciplinary teaching tools to enhance school curriculum and to teach children why having a healthy, clean environment, is important.

Emily Hughes, of the Friends of the Rouge, said, “Schoolyard habitats provide children with an opportunity to become environmental stewards. It is this type of place based learning we’re working to expand within our educational communities.”

The three schools selected to participate in the program this year were chosen through a competitive application process. Each school’s grant includes $500 to purchase native Michigan plants and another $500 worth of expert assistance with implementing their project. Habitats will be installed this spring and in the fall of 2010.

The program has been made possible by the Rouge River National Wet Weather Demonstration Project.

---